“A heart of stone” is a phrase that is often used to describe someone who is unfeeling, unemotional, and insensitive. It is a common idiom that is used to describe someone who lacks compassion, empathy, and kindness. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of a heart of stone.
Definitions
A heart of stone is a metaphorical term that refers to a person who is cold, unfeeling, and unemotional. This person is often described as having no empathy or compassion for others. They are unable to connect with others on an emotional level, and they may be seen as callous or indifferent.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “a heart of stone” is unclear, but it has been used for centuries to describe people who are unfeeling and unemotional. It is likely that the phrase originated from the Bible, where it is used to describe people who are hard-hearted and unrepentant.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of a heart of stone is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a person who is unfeeling, unemotional, and insensitive. Some dictionaries also describe it as a person who lacks compassion, empathy, and kindness.
Associations
A heart of stone is often associated with negative traits such as cruelty, callousness, and indifference. People who are described as having a heart of stone are often seen as untrustworthy and difficult to connect with. They may also be seen as selfish and self-centered.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of a heart of stone include:
- Cold-hearted.
- Unfeeling.
- Unemotional.
- Indifferent.
- Callous.
- Cruel.
- Inhumane.
- Heartless.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of a heart of stone include:
- Compassionate.
- Empathetic.
- Kind.
- Caring.
- Loving.
- Tender-hearted.
- Sympathetic.
- Warm-hearted.
The same root words
There are no root words associated with the phrase “a heart of stone.”
Example Sentences
- “He has a heart of stone and doesn’t care about anyone else’s feelings.”
- “She was so cruel to him, it was like she had a heart of stone.”
- “I don’t know how he can be so unemotional, it’s like he has a heart of stone.”
In conclusion, a heart of stone is a metaphorical term that is used to describe someone who is unfeeling, unemotional, and insensitive. It is a negative trait that is associated with cruelty, callousness, and indifference. While it is not a desirable trait, it is important to remember that people who are described as having a heart of stone may be dealing with their own emotional issues and may need help and support to overcome them.